Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Healthy Habits: Male Infertility

Male
infertility is becoming increasingly prevalent. For many years infertility was
seen as strictly a female issue. In recent years, however, experts estimate
that nearly half of the infertility cases they have seen can be caused by a
male factor.

What are some things men may do that inadvertently hinder their
fertility?

Poor nutrition can affect a male’s sperm, it is important to
have a health diet with proper nutrient consumption. The sperms mobility can be
affected by the consumption of alcohol and use of tobacco products. In
addition, frequent hot baths or Jacuzzi visits can have an affect on the male
sperm as the rise in heat in the scrotum affects the sperm and its formation. Other
factors such as weight and stress, or the use of testosterone, steroids or
illicit drugs can also affect a man’s fertility.

If a couple
is having difficulties conceiving, what should men know?

First and foremost, they are not alone, as fertility affects
1 in 8 couples. Men should know that a simple semen analysis can be done to see
if their sperm can swim past the cervix, uterus and fallopian tubes. If it is
discovered that the male factor is the cause of a couples’ infertility, there
are options to help conceive, options like Artificial Insemination (IUI) or In
Vitro Fertilization.

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Practicing
in California since 1990, Dr. Jane Frederick is an internationally noted
specialist in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She is the Medical Director of HRC Fertility
in Orange County, where she developed a diverse clinical practice in reproductive
surgery, IVF, and the genetic screening of embryos. Dr. Frederick is board certified in both
Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility and Obstetrics/Gynecology from the
University of Southern California. She has held many posts
with organizations active in the advancement of reproductive medicine including
the Pacific Coast Reproductive Society (Past President), and the American
Society of Reproductive Medicine. Dr.
Frederick has received a variety of honors for her outstanding work in the
field, and recently ranked among the top 10% in the nation from U.S. News and
World Report. Follow her on Facebook.